FHRD Executive Team

Chief Executive Officer

Ms. Karen Muscat Baldacchino is the Chief Executive Officer of the Malta Foundation for Human Resources Development (FHRD), where she leads the organisation in its mission to support and advance the HR profession in Malta. Under her leadership, FHRD continues to develop key initiatives, including professional development programmes, networking opportunities, and the Professional Membership scheme, a local certification in HR. She also oversees the planning and execution of FHRD’s flagship events, ensuring they provide valuable industry insights and opportunities for collaboration.

Karen holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications and an Executive Master of Business Administration, both from the University of Malta. Recognising the evolving nature of marketing, she also completed a Professional Diploma in Digital Marketing with the Digital Marketing Institute, ensuring she remains at the forefront of digital trends.

With over 20 years of experience in sales, marketing, and event management, particularly in the M.I.C.E (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events) industry, Karen has successfully organised and coordinated numerous high-profile local and international events. Her expertise lies in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and brand positioning, making her a driving force behind FHRD’s growth and impact.

Throughout her career, Karen has built an extensive network of local and international clients and business partners. Her strategic vision, innovative mindset, and commitment to excellence ensure not only the successful execution of major initiatives but also a dynamic and motivating work environment. Passionate about networking, marketing, and event organisation, she continues to steer FHRD towards new opportunities and greater influence in the HR and business landscape.

Projects and Events Executive

Ms Ylenia Maria Spiteri has a strong background in Digital Marketing and a deep appreciation for the impact of online strategies in driving business growth and fostering meaningful connections with audiences. Her passion for crafting compelling narratives and leveraging digital platforms has been a constant throughout her career.

Over time, Ylenia developed a keen interest in Human Resources, recognising its pivotal role in shaping workplace culture, employee engagement, and overall organisational success. This dual passion for marketing and people led her to FHRD, where she seamlessly blends her expertise in digital strategy with her enthusiasm for HR development.

At FHRD, Ylenia not only enhances the organisation’s online presence but also manages the Professional Membership scheme, a local certification in HR. Through this initiative, she contributes to the development of HR professionals, supporting their growth and recognition within the industry. Her role ensures that FHRD’s initiatives effectively reach and resonate with the right audience while fostering a workplace that thrives on collaboration and innovation.

Projects Executive

Ms Claire Farrugia joined FHRD in January 2019 as a Projects Executive and spearheaded the sub-committee to launch the FHRD HR Quality Mark. She is a Human Resources and Training Professional with over 18 years of experience primarily in the manufacturing pharmaceutical industry. Claire holds a Master of Science in Human Resources Management and Training from the University of Leicester and a Bachelor of Psychology from the University of Malta.

Operations Executive

Ms Marzena Izabela Szybiak is a qualified Business Psychologist, holding a Masters in Business Management specialising in Psychology in Business from the University of WSB Poznan in Poland and is also a Certified Coach, with a keen interest in Psychology, HR, and Business.

The experience she gained while doing business in Poland and Malta enabled her to gain vast knowledge and approach many issues from different perspectives. Marzena is a people-oriented professional and organised team member with the ability to communicate effectively and handle office changes.

She is skilled at building and maintaining relationships with employees across all levels of an organization. Last year she finished a Human Resources Management Course in Malta and joined FHRD because she strongly believes that having motivated and engaged employees are extremely important for the performance and success of any good organisation.

Board Secretary

Dr Godwin C Micallef is a management consultant. By profession, Dr Micallef is an Administration & Financial Controller. His tertiary education was in accountancy and business studies. He is also certified in advanced management from the University of Surrey [UK]. In 2010 he was presented with a Doctorate Honoris Causa from Grenoble Ecole de Management [Grenoble Ecole de Management, one of the few business schools worldwide to have achieved triple accreditation from AMBA, AACSB and EQUIS] in recognition of his contribution to industry both in Malta and on an international level and for his commitment to sustainable development.

Accountant

Edward Briffa is an Accountant by profession. He has been working at FHRD for the past 20 years.